Cold Thoughts

My apologies to any readers I may have out there in cyberspace who have been eagerly awaiting a new journal entry the last few weeks; I have not been able to write anything for a while due to a bad cold. Isn't it amazing how a stray piece of DNA wrapped in protein can cause such havoc in one's life?

I hate being sick. Aside from the physical discomforts -- sinus headaches, sneezing, runny noses, coughing, wheezing, cold sores, and dry skin -- having a cold seems to affect my brain. I think I resent that more than the physical problems I experience. When I'm sick, I can't focus on anything. Sounds seem louder, and everything tastes strange. I'm irritable, and I'm tired all the time. How can a tiny virus affect me so? It just doesn't seem fair. I can't do anything I normally enjoy because I can't concentrate; I can't read, write, or even watch TV. All I have the energy to do is roll about searching for a position that lets me breathe easily.

Some people like to have lots of company when they are sick. I suppose they like the attention, or they are extroverts and get energy from being around people. I'm the type that prefers solitude, though. I don't mind having people check up on me periodically to make sure I'm still alive and don't need anything, but in general I want to be left alone. I don't have much energy when I'm sick, and the presence of other people merely drains what little reserves I have.

I wonder when scientists will develop a vaccine for the common cold. I don't like shots very much, but if ever they perfect a cold vaccine, I'll be happy to try it.